During the holiday season, Durango becomes a truly magical place. Between the plethora of Christmas lights and local shops, white fluffy snow, and the famous Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Polar Express train ride, you and your family will feel like you are living in a true winter wonderland. Durango has been named among the top Christmas towns in the entire country, making it one of the best in the state to experience the magic of the holidays.

One of the most popular attractions during the holidays in Durango is the “Polar Express” train ride via the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The Polar Express Train Ride winds through the San Juan Mountains, delighting riders with snow-covered scenery. The holiday-themed train ride is based on the best-selling children’s book and famous Academy Award-nominated animated film, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg. All of the characters from the book come alive while traveling to the North Pole to pick up Santa. So take the whole family and don’t forget to dress in your holiday PJs. In addition, there are opportunities for family Christmas photos at the Durango Train Station. It is an experience that is sure to delight any child.

Delight your family—and yourself—with a horse-drawn sleigh ride through Purgatory Resort’s winter wonderland when you’re not skiing the powdery slopes. Colorado sleigh rides mean warm, snuggly blankets, crisp winter air, and the gentle jingle of bells bouncing to the rhythmic stride of strapping horses. Memories made gliding across the snow will last long after your trip is over.

Experience the largest holiday party of the season downtown on Noel Night, a Durango community tradition that celebrates local business by encouraging everyone to shop local. Enjoy holiday treats, decorations, music, and old friends around every corner. It’s a terrific opportunity for locals and visitors to get into the holiday spirit.

If you don’t do all of your shopping on Noel Night, check out the Durango Arts Center’s Winter Solstice Invitational Artisans’ Market. Durango is home to several talented artists. Find the perfect one-of-a-kind holiday gift in this year’s market filled with local handmade goods in every medium.

Another Durango Holiday tradition is Signing with Santa. The annual event kicks off the holiday season and draws over 1,000 people to Downtown Durango. Locals follow Santa in a horse-drawn carriage up Main Avenue singing Christmas carols until arriving at Buckley Park. Then the count down to the lighting of the community Christmas Tree starts. There is hot chocolate and cookies for everyone to enjoy, plus free photos with Santa.

Let’s not forget about the true meaning of the Holidays: giving! One of Durango’s best annual charity events is the Festival of Trees, a free, family-friendly holiday tradition! Tour an enchanted forest of Christmas trees and wreaths decorated by generous local sponsors. Bid on creative gifts and festive decorations, and vote for your favorite creations—all while supporting Community Connections’ mission to help people with disabilities lead healthy and fulfilling lives. Festival of Trees takes place at the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Grange Hall in downtown Durango.